Disney is under legal fire over its blockbuster animated sequel, Moana 2. Released in 2024, the follow-up to the 2016 original has become a major box office success, grossing $964 million worldwide, securing its position as the fourth highest-grossing film of the year. The movie continues the story of Moana, voiced by Auli’i Cravalho, as she assembles a crew for a daring oceanic adventure, once again crossing paths with the demigod Maui, played by Dwayne Johnson.
The film is also a significant contender in the 2024-2025 awards season. It was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature but lost to Flow. Additionally, its original song “Beyond” has been shortlisted for an Academy Award nomination, with official nods expected to be announced on January 19 following a brief delay caused by the Los Angeles wildfires.
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Copyright Infringement Lawsuit Filed Against Disney
Animator Buck Woodall has filed a $10 billion lawsuit against Disney, alleging that Moana 2 and its predecessor infringe on his copyrighted screenplay, Bucky. According to Woodall, he submitted his concept in 2003 to Jenny Marchick, then Director of Development at Mandeville Films, which had a first-look deal with Disney. His materials reportedly included a screenplay, a concept trailer, and supporting documents.
Woodall claims there are several striking similarities between his project and the Moana films:
- The story is set in an ancient Polynesian village.
- A teenager embarks on a sea adventure involving ancestral spirits represented as animals.
- The journey begins with the involvement of a turtle.
- A symbolic necklace plays a central role.
- A hook-wielding, tattooed demigod is a key supporting character.
- A hidden creature resides within a mountain.
- The crew encounters a whirlpool-like portal during their adventure.
This lawsuit marks Woodall’s second attempt to pursue legal action against Disney. His initial case, targeting the original Moana, was dismissed in November 2023 as being filed too late. However, the presiding judge, U.S. District Judge Consuelo Marshall, noted there was an issue of “genuine fact” regarding substantial and striking similarities between Bucky and Moana.
Disney has denied the allegations. Moana co-director Ron Clements stated during the earlier case, “Moana was not inspired by or based in any way on [Woodall] or his Bucky project, which I learned of for the first time after this lawsuit was filed.”
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Potential Impact on Disney and the Moana Franchise
If Woodall’s lawsuit succeeds, it could have long-term implications for Disney and the Moana franchise. A $10 billion payout, while substantial, would not significantly impact the entertainment giant’s financial stability. However, a ruling in Woodall’s favor could jeopardize the franchise’s future.
To mitigate this, Disney might consider offering Woodall a role as an executive producer in future Moana installments, allowing him to share in the franchise’s success. For now, the lawsuit adds a legal wrinkle to what has otherwise been a triumphant year for Disney and Moana 2.
Source: THR
